This week, I joined Governor Rick Scott in Tampa for a chance to highlight important funding and talk about protecting victims of human trafficking. The funding highlighted at the event will help human trafficking victims heal in a safe environment that is far away from the monsters who enslaved and abused them. These women and girls experienced beating and abuse in the worst possible way, many forced to take addictive drugs to ensure dependency on captors.

It takes years to heal the wounds left by the physical and mental abuse that victims of human trafficking suffer. We must do everything in our power to protect these victims and ensure resources are available to help with recovery. Thankfully, we have good people in our state who have dedicated their lives to helping victims heal. I want to thank Governor Scott and the state Legislature for providing millions this year to enhance resources and care options for victims of this horrendous crime.

This weekend, as we celebrate the Fourth of July, let us remember the liberties and independence we have every day as Americans. Thanks to our service members and veterans, we are able to enjoy our friends and families this Independence Day. Please have a happy and safe holiday.

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced a settlement requiring Volkswagen to pay more than $570 million for violating state laws prohibiting unfair or deceptive trade practices by marketing, selling and leasing diesel vehicles equipped with illegal and undisclosed defeat device software. This agreement is part of a series of state and federal settlements that will provide cash payments to affected consumers, require Volkswagen to buy back or modify certain VW and Audi 2.0-liter diesel vehicles and prohibit Volkswagen from engaging in future unfair or deceptive acts and practices in connection with its dealings with consumers and regulators.

“Volkswagen misled consumers not only in Florida, but across the country, to believe they purchased a vehicle that met specific emissions standards,” said Attorney General Bondi. “Thanks to the collaborative efforts of my office and other state attorneys general, significant relief will be afforded to consumers.” More.